With Solon making an attempt as the Lt. Governor, a new member will hold the seat for the first time in 8 years. Solon, it is interesting to note, has done many great things for UMD and the Duluth Public School System. She has had her hand in just about everything in Duluth since her term started in 2002. She has proposed several acts and legislatures as strong proponent of the health care policy. She has been the Duluth City Counselor. She also works at St. Luke's hospital as a clinical psychologist.

She has been a member of the following committees for the Duluth branch:

Capital Investment

Commerce and Consumer Protection

Energy, Utilities, Technology and Communications (chair)

Human Services Budget

Health, Housing and Family Security

Neither candidate has held a seat in senate before; Reinert has been very successful in politics. He hasn't been in a closely contested race in his previous two for Duluth City Council and State Rep. 7b, whereas Opelt hasn't won a political race according to Balletpedia, losing for State House twice in the late 90's. The front runner is clearly Reinert, but Opelt says,"Politics isn't a career for me...it's a chance to serve".

There are also questions surrounding this race of whether Reinert should be sticking his head into the Senate with such a fast upbringing through the political ladder. Only Harry Welty put his name on the primary against Reinert, and he lost by a 76 to 24 percent margin. Things are looking almost as bleak for Opelt as she has little political background and funding. Whereas Reinert has raised almost $40,000 and has support from the Duluth News Tribune.

Please vote in this poll to see the public awareness about this important race. Also please get out and vote November 2nd, and let your voice be heard! To see all the races nearest Duluth, look at a St. Louis County sample ballot.

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In 1998 UMD made the decision to dedicate a space on campus that focuses on diversity and international students. This is called the Multicultural Center. It is a place that is meant to help enhance academic achievement, create a sense of belonging, celebrate diversity and foster positive relations among UMD students, faculty and staff.